Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer – Quick, Easy & Crispy Recipe

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is one of the simplest and most convenient ways to prepare a delicious, healthy meal in just minutes. Unlike traditional methods that require thawing, air frying allows you to cook salmon straight from the freezer while preserving its moisture, flaky texture, and rich flavor. Whether you’re in a hurry or just want a quick, nutritious dish, air frying frozen salmon is a game-changer.

The air fryer offers several benefits—it cooks faster than baking, is healthier than pan-frying, and creates a crispy, golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Plus, it requires very little oil, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-fat, high-protein diet.

This guide covers everything you need to know about air frying frozen salmon, from selecting the best salmon and seasonings to ideal cooking times and expert tips for flawless results. By the end, you’ll have a go-to method for effortlessly making mouthwatering salmon.

Crispy air-fried frozen salmon fillet served with lemon and herbs

Why Use an Air Fryer for Frozen Salmon?

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is not only convenient but also offers several advantages over traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, healthier cooking option, or an easy cleanup, the air fryer delivers on all fronts.

1. Quick and Efficient Cooking

One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is its speed. Unlike baking in the oven, which can take up to 30 minutes, or pan-frying, which often requires defrosting first, the air fryer can cook frozen salmon in as little as 12-15 minutes. The circulating hot air ensures even cooking, so you get a crispy exterior and tender interior in record time.

2. No Need to Thaw

Forget about the hassle of waiting for your salmon to defrost. Air frying allows you to cook salmon directly from frozen, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you forget to take out the fish ahead of time.

3. Healthier Than Pan-Frying

Air frying uses little to no oil, reducing the overall calorie and fat content compared to traditional pan-frying. Instead of soaking in butter or oil, salmon in an air fryer crisps up with hot air circulation, maintaining its natural flavors and nutrients while keeping it light and healthy.

4. Perfect Texture Every Time

Air frying provides the ideal balance between a crispy, golden crust and a moist, flaky interior. Unlike microwaving, which can make salmon rubbery, or baking, which may dry it out, the air fryer locks in moisture while crisping up the outer layer, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

5. Even Cooking with Less Effort

The air fryer ensures that your salmon is cooked evenly without constant flipping or monitoring. The hot air circulation around the fish helps it cook uniformly, avoiding the common problem of an overcooked exterior with an undercooked center.

6. Minimal Cleanup

Air fryers are known for their easy cleanup. There’s no need to deal with oil splatters from pan-frying or scrub baking sheets covered in stuck-on fish skin. Simply line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray, and cleanup becomes effortless.

7. Energy-Efficient Cooking

Compared to using an oven, an air fryer consumes less energy and heats up much faster. This means you can prepare your salmon without heating up your entire kitchen, making it a great option year-round.

8. Versatile for Any Meal

Frozen salmon in an air fryer can be seasoned in countless ways—whether you prefer a simple salt-and-pepper rub, a bold Cajun seasoning, or a tangy lemon garlic marinade. You can also pair it with various side dishes, from roasted veggies to quinoa or mashed potatoes, making it a highly versatile meal option.

Choosing the Right Salmon

Not all salmon is the same, and selecting the best type for air frying can make a huge difference in flavor, texture, and overall quality. Whether you’re buying fresh-frozen fillets or pre-packaged salmon, here’s what you need to know when choosing the right frozen salmon for your air fryer.

1. Wild-Caught vs. Farmed Salmon

There are two primary types of salmon available: wild-caught and farmed. Both have unique characteristics that can affect how they cook in an air fryer.

  • Wild-Caught Salmon – This type of salmon is caught in natural waters, such as the Pacific Ocean. It tends to be leaner, firmer, and has a deeper orange-red color. It is considered healthier because it is lower in fat and higher in omega-3 fatty acids. However, due to its lower fat content, wild salmon can dry out more easily in the air fryer if overcooked.
  • Farmed Salmon – Raised in controlled environments, farmed salmon is fattier and often has a milder flavor. Because of its higher fat content, it stays moist and tender even after cooking. If you’re new to air frying salmon, farmed salmon may be more forgiving and easier to work with.

👉 Best Choice for Beginners: If you’re new to cooking salmon in an air fryer, farmed salmon is a good starting point because it is less likely to dry out. However, if you prefer a richer, more intense salmon flavor, go for wild-caught.

2. Skin-On vs. Skinless Salmon

  • Skin-On Salmon – Keeping the skin on helps retain moisture, prevents sticking, and adds a crispy texture when cooked. If you enjoy crispy salmon skin, air frying is a great method to achieve it.
  • Skinless Salmon – If you prefer a more delicate texture and don’t like crispy skin, skinless fillets work just as well. They require a little more care to prevent drying out, but they absorb marinades better.

👉 Best Choice: Skin-on salmon is recommended for air frying because the skin protects the fillet from drying out and adds a crispy texture when cooked at high temperatures.

3. Fresh vs. Frozen Salmon

  • Fresh-Frozen Salmon – If possible, opt for salmon that was flash-frozen immediately after being caught. This preserves freshness, flavor, and texture better than fish that has been sitting unfrozen for too long.
  • Previously Thawed Salmon – Some frozen salmon in grocery stores has been thawed and refrozen, which can affect the texture. Always check the label to ensure you’re getting high-quality frozen fillets.

👉 Best Choice: Look for wild-caught, fresh-frozen salmon fillets with no added preservatives or artificial coloring.

4. Individual Fillets vs. Whole Portions

  • Pre-Portioned Fillets – These are individually cut and are the easiest to cook straight from the freezer. They cook evenly and require minimal preparation.
  • Whole Salmon Portions – Larger cuts take longer to cook and might require slicing into smaller pieces for even cooking in the air fryer.

👉 Best Choice: Individually frozen fillets are ideal for air frying since they cook evenly and require less preparation.

5. Packaging Considerations

  • Avoid salmon fillets with visible ice crystals, as this can indicate freezer burn, which affects the texture.
  • Choose salmon that’s vacuum-sealed or packed with minimal air exposure to prevent freezer burn.
  • Read labels to avoid fillets with added salt or preservatives, as natural, unseasoned fillets work best for air frying.

Preparing Frozen Salmon for the Air Fryer

Before cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer, a little preparation ensures the best flavor and texture. Unlike other cooking methods, air frying requires minimal prep work, and you can cook the salmon directly from frozen without thawing. Here’s how to get it ready for the best results.

1. Should You Thaw Frozen Salmon First?

One of the best things about cooking salmon in an air fryer is that you don’t need to thaw it. Cooking it straight from the freezer saves time and still produces a tender, flaky texture. However, in some cases, thawing slightly can help with even cooking.

When to Cook from Frozen:
Having individually frozen fillets
If you’re short on time
If you want a firmer texture

When to Thaw Slightly:
salmon is frozen in a large block (separate the fillets first)
If you want to apply a wet marinade (thawed fillets absorb flavors better)
If your air fryer struggles with thick cuts

How to Quickly Thaw Salmon (If Needed)

  • Place the frozen salmon in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for 15-20 minutes.
  • Pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning.

2. Prepping the Air Fryer

To prevent sticking and enhance crispiness:
Preheat the air fryer – Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the salmon cook evenly.
Use parchment paper or cooking spray – A small sheet of parchment paper or a light spray of oil prevents sticking.

3. Seasoning Frozen Salmon

Even though frozen salmon can be seasoned directly, the best method depends on whether you’re using dry rubs or wet marinades.

Best Dry Seasoning for Frozen Salmon:
🌿 Salt and black pepper (enhances natural flavors)
🍋 Garlic powder and lemon zest (adds freshness)
🌶️ Paprika or Cajun seasoning (for a spicy kick)
🌿 Dill or parsley (pairs well with salmon’s rich taste)

How to Apply:
1️⃣ Brush the frozen salmon lightly with olive oil or melted butter to help the seasoning stick.
2️⃣ Sprinkle the dry seasoning evenly over both sides.
3️⃣ If using skin-on salmon, season the flesh side more for better flavor absorption.

Best Wet Marinades (For Thawed or Slightly Thawed Salmon):
🧄 Garlic butter sauce (rich and savory)
🍯 Honey mustard glaze (sweet and tangy)
🍋 Lemon herb marinade (light and fresh)
🦞 Teriyaki sauce (Asian-inspired flavor)

How to Apply:

  • For frozen fillets, brush the marinade on halfway through cooking (after the first 7-8 minutes) to prevent it from sliding off.
  • If the salmon is thawed, marinate it for 15-30 minutes before cooking.

4. Should You Add Oil?

Salmon naturally contains healthy fats, so a lot of oil isn’t needed.
A light drizzle of olive oil or avocado oil helps with crispiness and prevents dryness.
If using skin-on salmon, applying oil to the skin can make it extra crispy in the air fryer.

5. Arranging the Salmon in the Air Fryer

To ensure even cooking:
Place the fillets in a single layer with space between them (no overlapping).
If cooking multiple pieces, avoid overcrowding—air circulation is key.
For extra crispiness, place the salmon skin-side down first, then flip halfway through cooking.

Air Fryer Settings and Cooking Time

Getting the right temperature and cooking time is essential for achieving perfectly cooked frozen salmon in an air fryer. Since salmon can overcook quickly, following the correct settings ensures a crispy exterior and moist, flaky interior.

1. Best Temperature for Air Frying Frozen Salmon

For the best texture, cook frozen salmon at 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal because:
Ensures even cooking without drying out the fish.
Allows the exterior to crisp up while keeping the inside tender.
Prevents overcooking, which can happen at higher temperatures.

Alternative Temperature Options:
🔥 400°F (200°C) – Cooks faster but requires careful monitoring to avoid dryness.
🌡 350°F (175°C) – A safer option for thicker fillets to prevent burning the outside before the inside is fully cooked.

2. Cooking Time for Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of the fillet and whether it’s skin-on or skinless.

Salmon ThicknessEstimated Cooking Time at 375°F (190°C)
Thin fillets (½ inch / 1.2 cm)8-10 minutes
Medium fillets (¾ inch / 2 cm)10-12 minutes
Thick fillets (1 inch+ / 2.5 cm)12-15 minutes

🔹 For skin-on salmon: Cook skin-side down first, then flip halfway through for even cooking.
🔹 For extra crispy skin: Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2 minutes.

3. How to Flip Salmon in the Air Fryer

Flipping isn’t always necessary, but it helps with even cooking.

  • For thick fillets → Flip halfway through cooking to crisp both sides.
  • For thin fillets → No flipping needed; let the hot air circulate freely.

How to Flip Without Breaking the Salmon:
✅ Use a spatula instead of tongs to avoid breaking the fillet.
✅ If the salmon sticks, let it cook 1-2 more minutes, then try again.

4. How to Check If Salmon Is Cooked

Since salmon can overcook quickly, checking for doneness is key.

Internal Temperature: Use a food thermometer—salmon is perfectly cooked at 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare and 140°F (60°C) for well-done.
Flakiness Test: Insert a fork into the thickest part of the salmon—if it flakes easily, it’s ready.
Color Check: The flesh should be opaque pink (not translucent).

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

Now that your frozen salmon is prepped and seasoned, it’s time to cook it to crispy, flaky perfection in the air fryer. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof cooking method that delivers great results every time.

A fork flaking a cooked salmon fillet to check doneness

Preheat Your Air Fryer

  • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Preheat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

🔹 Why preheat? It helps the salmon cook faster and more evenly, preventing undercooked or dry spots.

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with a thin layer of olive oil.
  • Alternatively, use a small piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking (avoid covering the entire basket to allow airflow).

Arrange the Frozen Salmon in the Basket

  • Place the frozen salmon skin-side down (if applicable) in a single layer.
  • Do not overcrowd—leave space between fillets for proper air circulation.

👉 Tip: If the salmon fillets are frozen together, run them under cold water for a few seconds to separate them before placing in the air fryer.

Set the Cooking Time

  • Thin fillets (½ inch / 1.2 cm): 8-10 minutes
  • Medium fillets (¾ inch / 2 cm): 10-12 minutes
  • Thick fillets (1 inch+ / 2.5 cm): 12-15 minutes

🔹 For crispy skin: Cook skin-side down first, then flip in the last 3-4 minutes.
🔹 For extra tenderness: Cover with foil in the first half of cooking to retain moisture.

Flip (If Needed) and Add More Seasoning

  • At the halfway mark, carefully flip the salmon using a spatula (optional, but helps crisp both sides).
  • If using a wet glaze or marinade, brush it on now to prevent burning.

👉 Tip: If the salmon sticks to the basket, let it cook for 1-2 more minutes, then try flipping again—it should release naturally when ready.

Check for Doneness

  • Use a fork to check for flakiness—the salmon should easily separate.
  • For precision, use a meat thermometer:
    • Medium-rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
    • Medium-well: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
    • Well-done: 145°F (63°C) or higher

👉 Tip: Remove the salmon from the air fryer when it reaches 135°F (57°C), as it will continue cooking from residual heat.

Rest and Serve

  • Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.
  • Garnish with lemon slices, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of sauce for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is quick and simple, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to dry, undercooked, or unevenly cooked fish. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your salmon turns out crispy, flaky, and delicious every time!

1. Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket

🚫 Mistake: Placing too many fillets in the air fryer at once.
Solution: Cook the salmon in a single layer with space between each piece to allow proper air circulation. If cooking multiple pieces, work in batches.

2. Skipping the Preheating Step

🚫 Mistake: Putting frozen salmon into a cold air fryer.
Solution: Always preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the salmon develop a crispy outer layer.

3. Not Seasoning Properly

🚫 Mistake: Adding seasoning before brushing the salmon with oil or butter—causing it to slide off.
Solution: Lightly coat the salmon with olive oil or melted butter before seasoning to help it stick. If using a marinade, apply it halfway through cooking to prevent burning.

4. Using Too Much Oil

🚫 Mistake: Overloading the fillet with oil, making it greasy instead of crispy.
Solution: Use a light drizzle or spray of oil—just enough to help seasonings stick and enhance crispiness. Salmon is naturally oily and doesn’t need much extra fat.

5. Cooking at the Wrong Temperature

🚫 Mistake: Using a temperature that’s too high (burns the outside, leaving the inside raw) or too low (results in a soggy texture).
Solution: The best temperature for frozen salmon is 375°F (190°C). This allows the outside to crisp up while cooking the inside evenly.

6. Flipping Too Early or Too Often

🚫 Mistake: Flipping the salmon too soon, causing it to stick or break apart.
Solution: If flipping, wait until halfway through cooking. If the salmon sticks, let it cook 1-2 more minutes, then try again—it should release easily when ready.

7. Overcooking the Salmon

🚫 Mistake: Leaving the salmon in the air fryer too long, making it dry and rubbery.
Solution: Use a meat thermometer and remove the salmon at 135°F (57°C). It will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the air fryer.

8. Not Letting the Salmon Rest Before Serving

🚫 Mistake: Cutting into the salmon immediately after air frying.
Solution: Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping it moist and flavorful.

9. Ignoring the Thickness of the Fillet

🚫 Mistake: Cooking all salmon fillets for the same time, regardless of thickness.
Solution: Adjust the cooking time based on thickness:

  • Thin fillets (½ inch): 8-10 minutes
  • Medium fillets (¾ inch): 10-12 minutes
  • Thick fillets (1 inch+): 12-15 minutes

10. Forgetting to Check for Doneness

🚫 Mistake: Assuming the salmon is done just by looking at it.
Solution: Use the flakiness test (the flesh should separate easily with a fork) or a food thermometer (aim for 125-130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for well-done).

Serving Suggestions for Air-Fried Salmon

Now that you’ve mastered cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer, it’s time to plate it up with the perfect side dishes, sauces, and garnishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, here are some of the best ways to serve your air-fried salmon.

Air-fried salmon plated with roasted vegetables and quinoa

1. Best Side Dishes for Air-Fried Salmon

Pair your crispy, flaky salmon with these delicious sides for a balanced and flavorful meal:

🥗 Healthy & Low-Carb Options

  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts)
  • Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash
  • Cauliflower Rice
  • Mixed Green Salad with a lemon vinaigrette
  • Avocado and Cucumber Salad

🍚 Comforting & Filling Options

  • Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes
  • Quinoa or Brown Rice
  • Creamy Risotto
  • Baked Sweet Potatoes
  • Pasta with Pesto or Alfredo Sauce

🍞 Bread & Grains

  • Crusty Garlic Bread
  • Wild Rice Pilaf
  • Whole Wheat Couscous

2. Best Sauces for Air-Fried Salmon

Enhance your salmon’s flavor with a delicious sauce:

🍋 Lemon Butter Sauce (buttery, tangy, and fresh)
🥑 Avocado Cream Sauce (rich and smooth)
🥣 Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce (light and herby)
🌶 Spicy Sriracha Mayo (for a kick of heat)
🦞 Teriyaki Glaze (sweet and savory)

👉 How to Serve: Drizzle the sauce over the salmon or serve it on the side for dipping.

3. Best Toppings & Garnishes

Give your air-fried salmon an extra flavor boost with these toppings:

🍋 Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lemon enhances the taste.
🌿 Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro.
🧄 Toasted Garlic Butter – Adds richness and depth.
🥑 Sliced Avocado – A creamy and nutritious topping.
🌰 Toasted Nuts or Seeds – Almonds, sesame seeds, or pine nuts for crunch.

4. How to Plate Air-Fried Salmon Like a Pro

Place the salmon in the center of the plate.
Arrange your side dishes neatly around it.
Drizzle with sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.
Serve with a lemon wedge for an elegant touch.

Serving Ideas

Looking for creative ways to serve your air-fried salmon? Try these delicious ideas:

  • Salmon Pasta: Use leftovers to make a quick Salmon Pasta Recipe with a creamy sauce.
  • Healthy Seafood Salad: Chop up the salmon and toss it into this Seafood Salad Recipe for a refreshing meal.
  • Alternative Cooking Methods: Want to explore more ways to cook salmon? Check out the Best Silver Salmon Recipe for expert cooking tips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How Long Do I Cook Frozen Salmon in the Air Fryer?

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer typically takes 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on the thickness of the fillet.

  • Thin fillets (½ inch / 1.2 cm): 8-10 minutes
  • Medium fillets (¾ inch / 2 cm): 10-12 minutes
  • Thick fillets (1 inch+ / 2.5 cm): 12-15 minutes

Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer—salmon is fully cooked when it reaches 125-140°F (52-60°C).

2. How Long Does It Take to Cook Frozen Salmon at 400 Degrees?

At 400°F (200°C), frozen salmon cooks slightly faster but requires careful monitoring to prevent overcooking.

  • Thin fillets: 7-9 minutes
  • Medium fillets: 9-11 minutes
  • Thick fillets: 11-13 minutes

To keep the salmon moist and flaky, consider lowering the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cooking for a few extra minutes.

3. How Long to Cook Frozen Fish in an Air Fryer at 400 Degrees?

The cooking time depends on the type of frozen fish and its thickness:

  • Thin fish fillets (like tilapia or cod, ½ inch thick): 7-9 minutes
  • Medium fish fillets (¾ inch thick): 9-11 minutes
  • Thicker fish fillets (1 inch+ thick): 11-14 minutes

For breaded frozen fish (like fish sticks or battered fish), check the package instructions, but they usually take 10-12 minutes at 400°F.

4. What Is the Best Temperature to Cook Salmon in an Air Fryer?

The best temperature for cooking salmon in an air fryer is 375°F (190°C).

  • It ensures even cooking without burning the outside.
  • The salmon stays moist and flaky while developing a slight crisp.
  • It works well for both fresh and frozen salmon.

If you want extra crispy skin, you can increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is one of the easiest, healthiest, and most convenient ways to prepare a delicious meal in just minutes. With no need to thaw, you can go from freezer to plate in about 12-15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

By following the right temperature settings, seasoning techniques, and cooking times, you can achieve a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the salmon moist and flaky inside. Whether you prefer a simple salt-and-pepper rub, a bold Cajun seasoning, or a sweet honey glaze, there are endless ways to customize your salmon to suit your taste.

Key Takeaways:

No thawing needed – Cook frozen salmon directly in the air fryer.
Best temperature: 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes, depending on thickness.
Seasoning: Dry rubs stick best, and marinades should be added halfway through cooking.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer (125-140°F) or the flake test.
Pair it with delicious sides like roasted veggies, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
Store leftovers properly and reheat gently to maintain texture.

Air frying salmon is a quick, healthy, and foolproof method that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for your family, or just trying to eat healthier, this method makes it easier than ever to enjoy nutritious, protein-packed meals without the hassle.

So, next time you have frozen salmon, skip the oven and try the air fryer—you won’t be disappointed!

Air-fried salmon plated with roasted vegetables and quinoa

Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer – Crispy, Flaky & Ready in 15 Minutes

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is quick, easy, and requires no thawing! This simple recipe delivers perfectly crispy, flaky salmon in just 15 minutes, making it a great option for a healthy and delicious meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • Essential Equipment:
  • ✔ Air Fryer – Any standard basket or oven-style air fryer will work. A 5-quart or larger air fryer is ideal for cooking multiple fillets.
  • ✔ Tongs or Spatula – Helps flip the salmon gently without breaking it.
  • ✔ Basting Brush – For applying oil or melted butter evenly.
  • ✔ Meat Thermometer – Ensures the salmon is cooked to the perfect internal temperature (125-140°F).
  • ✔ Small Mixing Bowl – For combining seasonings or marinades.
  • ✔ Measuring Spoons – To accurately measure spices and oil.
  • ✔ Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray (Optional) – Prevents sticking in the air fryer basket.

Ingredients
  

  • 2 frozen salmon fillets skin-on or skinless
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or melted butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional for extra flavor
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest optional
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
  • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
  • Lightly brush the frozen salmon fillets with olive oil or melted butter to help the seasoning stick.
  • Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon zest evenly over the fillets.
  • Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
  • Place the salmon skin-side down (if applicable) in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  • Leave space between the fillets for proper air circulation.
  • Step 4: Cook the Salmon
  • Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness:
  • ½ inch (1.2 cm) thick: 8-10 minutes
  • ¾ inch (2 cm) thick: 10-12 minutes
  • 1 inch+ (2.5 cm) thick: 12-15 minutes
  • If desired, flip the salmon halfway through for even crispiness.
  • Step 5: Check for Doneness
  • Use a fork test—the salmon should flake easily.
  • For accuracy, use a meat thermometer:
  • Medium-rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
  • Medium-well: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
  • Well-done: 145°F (63°C)
  • Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
  • Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

If your salmon is frozen together, run it under cold water for a few seconds to separate the fillets.
For extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2 minutes.
If using a marinade, brush it on halfway through cooking to prevent burning.
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